NORAD deputy commander named to Order of Military Merit for second time

U.S. Northern Command

Courtesy Story

Date: 03.07.2013

Posted: 03.07.2013 10:56

News ID: 103061

By Maj. Julie Roberge
NORAD Public Affairs

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. - Lt. Gen. Alain Parent, North American Aerospace Defense Command deputy commander, was promoted within the Canadian Order of Military Merit to Commander during an investiture ceremony at Rideau Hall in Ottawa March 5.

The level of commander recognizes outstanding meritorious service and demonstrated leadership in duties of great responsibility. Parent was originally invested into the Order of Military Merit in 2008.

“I am honored and humbled to have been promoted to the level of Commander within the Order of Military Merit,” Parent said. “I serve Canada and the Canadian Armed Forces proudly and will continue to devote myself to the safety, security and defense of North America in my role as deputy commander of NORAD.”

David Johnston, Governor General and Commander-in-Chief of Canada, said the inductees into the order represent the best of the Canadian Armed Forces.

“Today, you have inherited both the honor of the past and the responsibilities of service in the present-day, and that is why your leadership means so much,” Johnston said. “Your willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty is perhaps the greatest tribute you can pay to those who went before you.”

“Your outstanding work is essential in helping the Canadian Forces be a force for good in the world today,” he added. “That is your mission, after all: to contribute to a more peaceful, secure and just world, and to defend the democratic values of Canada.”

Created in 1972, the Order of Military Merit recognizes meritorious service and devotion to duty by members of the Canadian Forces. The Order honors them for their commitment to Canada, according to the following three levels of membership: Commander (C.M.M.), Officer (O.M.M.) and Member (M.M.M.).